Navigating the Challenges: Why a Left-Handed Shotgun Matters
For a right-handed individual, the operation of a standard shotgun might seem intuitive. The controls are naturally within reach, and the ejection port sends spent shells away from the face. But for the left-handed shooter, this seemingly simple operation presents several significant hurdles.
The most obvious challenge lies in the design of the firearm itself. Standard shotguns are built with the right-handed shooter in mind. This means the ejection port, where spent shells are expelled, is on the right side of the receiver. When a left-handed shooter attempts to operate such a firearm, the ejected shells fly across their face, posing a significant risk of injury. Hot brass can sting the face, or even worse, potentially cause eye injuries. The safety, usually located on the side of the receiver or the trigger guard, is difficult to manipulate comfortably and quickly with the non-dominant hand.
Beyond the immediate safety concerns, there is also a significant ergonomic disadvantage. The awkward positioning of controls makes it challenging for the left-handed shooter to establish a smooth and efficient shooting rhythm. The natural hand movements, the alignment to the target, and the flow of the action are all disrupted. This results in a slower shooting speed and a decrease in accuracy. The shooter is forced to compensate for an inherently unsuitable firearm, leading to less consistent results.
Fortunately, understanding the challenges for a left-handed shooter leads directly to acknowledging the immense value of a specifically designed shotgun. The Remington 870 Left Handed addresses these critical issues, offering a safer, more comfortable, and ultimately, more effective shooting experience. The shift in design is more than a mere adaptation; it’s a fundamental improvement.
A Design for the Southpaw: Unveiling the Features
The Remington 870 Left Handed is not just a standard 870 flipped over. It is a carefully crafted instrument, engineered to meet the specific needs of a left-handed shooter. This customization involves several key modifications that significantly enhance both safety and performance.
The most crucial feature is the repositioning of the ejection port. In the left-handed model, this opening is situated on the left side of the receiver, allowing spent shells to be ejected away from the shooter’s face. This simple change eliminates the risk of injury and prevents any distractions from the shell casings.
Further enhancing the left-handed user experience is the relocation of the safety and bolt release. The safety is positioned for comfortable and immediate access using the dominant hand, ensuring effortless operation. The bolt release is also redesigned for easy accessibility, again facilitating a smooth and efficient reloading cycle.
Beyond the controls, the stock and forend are also carefully considered. The stock is angled with the correct “cast” or offset for a left-handed shooter. This subtle design difference ensures that the shooter’s eye is perfectly aligned with the sights, leading to better target acquisition and more consistent shot placement. The forend is designed and shaped to ergonomically fit the non-dominant hand, allowing for a more secure and comfortable grip while cycling the action. Every aspect of the Remington 870 Left Handed is strategically built to create a natural and intuitive shooting experience.
Exploring the Remington 870 Left Handed Variants
While the core design of the Remington 870 Left Handed provides the same reliable performance as its right-handed counterpart, there are variations available, each with its own distinct set of features. It’s important to familiarize yourself with these versions to make an informed choice.
The classic Remington 870 Left Handed Express model is often an ideal starting point, known for its excellent reliability, simple operation, and affordability. This model typically comes with a synthetic stock and forend, making it resistant to weather and wear and tear. It is a workhorse of a shotgun, suitable for various applications, from home defense to recreational shooting.
The Wingmaster series represents a step up in the quality of materials and finish. While the Remington 870 Left Handed Wingmaster still offers the same rugged action, it features a polished blued finish and a walnut stock and forend, giving it a more sophisticated appearance. The Wingmaster is a popular choice among hunters and sport shooters who appreciate the blend of beauty and performance.
For those seeking a more tactical configuration, the Remington 870 Left Handed can also be found in tactical models. These models typically come with shorter barrels, extended magazine tubes, and various accessory rails for mounting lights, lasers, or optics. These options offer enhanced functionality for defensive purposes.
When choosing a model, consider your intended use. Hunting requires a durable and reliable shotgun. For home defense, a compact model might be more suitable. For recreational shooting, the features of the model should match your priorities for the activity.
Making the Right Choice: Considerations for Selection
Choosing the right Remington 870 Left Handed is a highly personalized process that depends on your individual needs and preferences. Several factors should be carefully considered to ensure you make the perfect match.
The gauge is one of the initial considerations. The most common gauges for the Remington 870 Left Handed are 12 and 20 gauge. A 12-gauge offers the most power and versatility, excellent for hunting larger game and offering a formidable defense option. However, it also generates more recoil, which might make it less comfortable for new shooters or those with a lighter frame. A 20-gauge, on the other hand, is generally easier to manage due to its reduced recoil, making it a good choice for beginners or for individuals who prefer a lighter shotgun.
Barrel length and choke type also influence performance. Barrel length affects the balance, swing, and shot pattern. Longer barrels typically provide a wider effective range, while shorter barrels are easier to maneuver in close quarters. The choke, located at the muzzle, controls the spread of the shot pellets. Different choke types, from cylinder to full, offer different levels of constriction, which affects the pattern density at various distances. A more open choke is ideal for close-range shooting, while a tighter choke is better suited for longer distances.
Stock fit is of utmost importance. The length of pull, drop at comb, and drop at heel of the stock should be carefully measured to ensure a proper fit. A correctly fitted stock allows for comfortable shouldering, a natural sight picture, and minimizes felt recoil. If you are purchasing a new shotgun, it’s wise to seek expert advice in finding the right fit. Customization options such as adjustable stocks are available to cater for perfect fit for each shooter.
Finding the Right Source: Purchasing Your Shotgun
Once you have a clear idea of the Remington 870 Left Handed you desire, the next step is to find a reputable vendor. You have several options, and the ideal choice depends on your preference.
Local gun stores are excellent for several reasons. You can inspect the shotgun in person, handle it to check the fit, and often receive expert advice from knowledgeable staff. They also facilitate background checks and all other legal requirements.
Online retailers offer a wider selection, competitive pricing, and the convenience of shopping from home. However, you cannot handle the shotgun before purchasing it. Make sure to select reputable retailers with positive customer reviews and a clear return policy.
It is crucial to compare prices from multiple sources. Prices for the Remington 870 Left Handed can vary widely depending on the model, condition, and retailer.
Maintaining Your Weapon: Care and Upkeep
To ensure that your Remington 870 Left Handed continues to perform flawlessly for years to come, regular maintenance and care are crucial.
Cleaning is paramount. After each shooting session, thoroughly clean the barrel, action, and other components to remove powder residue, debris, and fouling. Use appropriate cleaning solvents, brushes, and patches.
Lubrication is also key. Apply a thin layer of gun oil to the moving parts, such as the bolt, action bars, and trigger group, to ensure smooth operation and to protect them from corrosion.
Proper storage is essential when your firearm is not in use. Store the Remington 870 Left Handed in a safe, dry place, away from children and unauthorized individuals. Secure it according to local laws and regulations.
Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages
The Remington 870 Left Handed offers numerous benefits. It provides a safer and more comfortable shooting experience for southpaws. It enhances accuracy and performance. It is also a reliable and durable firearm, with a long-standing reputation for excellence.
However, like all shotguns, there might be a few potential disadvantages. The cost may be a bit higher due to the specialized design. It may also be more difficult to find in stock compared to standard, right-handed models. However, the added comfort and safety, along with the performance benefits, usually make the slight premium worthwhile.
Conclusion: Embracing the Power of the Remington 870 Left Handed
The Remington 870 Left Handed is a testament to the dedication to inclusivity and performance. By carefully considering the unique needs of left-handed shooters, Remington has created a shotgun that truly levels the playing field. This firearm is a powerful tool, offering both reliability and accuracy, all while enhancing the safety of the left-handed shooter.
This guide has provided you with an in-depth look at the specific design features of the Remington 870 Left Handed, its variants, and the considerations for choosing the ideal model. Remember, a well-chosen and properly maintained firearm is a source of confidence. A quality shot gun makes practice and training both more effective and enjoyable.
This is more than just a firearm; it’s a commitment to the sport, a commitment to your safety, and a commitment to maximizing your potential.
